Sreesanth Challenges Harbhajan Singh to Boxing Match Amid Renewed Feud

In a surprising turn of events, former Indian cricketer Sreesanth has publicly challenged Harbhajan Singh to a boxing match, reigniting their long-standing feud stemming from the infamous slapgate incident nearly two decades ago. During a recent podcast, Sreesanth expressed his frustration over Harbhajan's continued references to their past conflict and called for a real confrontation in the ring. This challenge has brought back memories of their tumultuous history, raising questions about their relationship and whether this will lead to a resolution or further animosity. As the cricketing world watches closely, the implications of this challenge could be significant for both players.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 19, 2026, 12:31 IST

Sreesanth's Bold Challenge to Harbhajan

Former Indian fast bowler Sreesanth has reignited his long-standing rivalry with Harbhajan Singh by publicly inviting him to a boxing match, nearly two decades after the infamous IPL 'slapgate' incident. In a recent podcast, Sreesanth expressed his desire to settle their differences in the ring, accusing Harbhajan of profiting from their past conflict. Although it seemed that both players had moved on from the incident, Sreesanth's latest remarks indicate that their relationship has soured once again.

What Sparked the Renewed Conflict?

The latest verbal exchange began when Sreesanth criticized a recent advertisement featuring Harbhajan, which he felt referenced the slapgate incident. He challenged Harbhajan to a real fight, referencing an old promotional image of them in boxing gear. "Do you have the courage to step into the ring with me? Can you sign up and come? This is not acting; I’m smiling, but you seem serious. Let’s see who’s willing to take this challenge," Sreesanth stated during his appearance on Lallantop.

By highlighting his involvement in combat sports, Sreesanth urged Harbhajan to confront him in the ring instead of through commercials. "I’m currently competing in the Bare Knuckle Fight League. If you have issues with me regarding the slap incident, let’s settle it in the ring. I’m calling you out sincerely. For all the Malayalis and Sardars, I’m waiting for you," he added.

Recap of the Slapgate Incident

The slapgate incident remains one of the most controversial moments in Indian cricket history. In 2008, after a match against Kings XI Punjab, Harbhajan, playing for the Mumbai Indians, slapped Sreesanth during the inaugural IPL season. Images of a tearful Sreesanth quickly circulated, becoming a major talking point and leading to significant backlash and disciplinary measures against Harbhajan.

Despite appearing to reconcile over the years, Sreesanth claims that their relationship has deteriorated once more. He expressed frustration over a recent advertisement featuring Harbhajan, which he believes trivializes their past conflict. Sreesanth stated that he has cut ties with Harbhajan again, even blocking him, despite Harbhajan's public apologies and their previous collaborations. As of now, Harbhajan has not responded to Sreesanth's latest challenge, leaving the possibility of further discussions between the two uncertain, but the memory of the 2008 incident remains vivid.